1. Father/Mother: This was the most straightforward and commonly used form of address. Children would say "Father" or "Mother" when speaking to or referring to their parents.
2. Papa/Mama: These terms were often used as informal variations of "Father" and "Mother." They conveyed a sense of familiarity and affection.
3. Sir/Ma'am: In more formal settings, particularly among upper-class families, children would address their parents as "Sir" and "Ma'am." This was a sign of great respect and politeness.
4. Mister/Missus: In some cases, children would use the formal titles "Mister" and "Missus" when addressing their parents. This was especially common in families where the parents had a higher social status or held positions of authority.
5. Given Names: In less formal settings, particularly within close-knit families, children might use their parents' given names when speaking to them. However, this was less common and was usually reserved for situations of intimacy and privacy.
6. Honorable/Reverend: In the case of families where the father was a respected member of the community, such as a judge or a minister, children might address him as "Honorable" or "Reverend." This showed great respect and acknowledgment of their father's position in society.
It is important to note that these forms of address were not strictly enforced, and variations existed across colonial society. Cultural, regional, and social factors all played a role in shaping how children addressed their parents during this time.